Call for Applications
Project Manager at Rendever, Inc. based at the University of California, Santa Barbara
NIA-funded study of technology (VR) in older adults
With Professors Tamara Afifi and Nancy Collins
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled [posted July 26, 2021]
The Departments of Communication and Psychological & Brain Sciences at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) are recruiting a Project Manager to collaborate with Professors Tamara Afifi and Nancy Collins on an NIA-funded study of technology in older adults.
The study examines how virtual reality (vs. a Zoom control group) increases quality of life, reduces caregiver burden, and fosters family bonds among older adults in senior living communities and a family member who lives at a distance. The project is an exciting partnership between UCSB and Rendever, an innovative virtual reality platform for older adults designed to increase social connection through the power of virtual reality and shared experiences. (The Project Manager will be based at UCSB, but will be employed by Rendever, Inc., and will work closely with Cofounder and CEO, Kyle Rand, and his team in Boston.)
THE POSITION:
Primary responsibilities of the Project Manager will be overseeing all aspects of data collection in Santa Barbara including outreach to the senior communities, recruitment, day to day management of (in-person) data collection, and coordination of a team of undergraduate and graduate students. Additional responsibilities include data management, clinical trial and human subjects tracking and reporting, and collaboration on manuscript writing and dissemination of study findings. The Project Manager will work closely with the PIs and a fantastic team of students, researchers, and staff in a collegial and supportive environment. This is a full time 2-year appointment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Qualified candidates will possess an M.A. or Ph.D. in Communication, Psychology (Social, Cognitive, Lifespan Developmental, or Clinical), Family Studies, or a closely related field and have previous experience conducting human subjects research in the social/behavioral sciences. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as well as excellent organizational skills and demonstrated aptitude for leading research projects from start to finish.
Exceptionally strong applicants will have effective writing skills, previous experience with SPSS (or R), and knowledge of online survey (e.g., Qualtrics) and data management platforms.
You are a great fit if you also have a passion for helping the aging community and/or conducting applied research on innovative technologies that can improve people’s lives.
SALARY RANGE: $50,000 – $60,000
BENEFITS: Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
START/END DATE: September 1, 2021 – August 30, 2023
HOW TO APPLY: Please submit a cover letter, Resume/CV, and two letters of reference to Dr. Tamara Afifi (tafifi@ucsb.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
This institution offers benefits to same-sex and to different sex domestic partners.
This institution offers benefits to spouses.